Lest We Forget 1

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. On this day Canada remembers and acknowledges those who courageously fought in a battle defending their country. A symbol of our remembrance is the poppy we wear pinned on our left lapel. The red poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem "In Flanders Fields". These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I, their brilliant red an appropriate symbol of the blood spilled in the war. At Brentwood, we take this day of remembrance very seriously, commemorating those who gave up their lives for us. Mr. Robert MacLean reminded us that we should allow ourselves a few moments of private silence, to respectfully acknowledge our veterans whether that means strolling down the Millennium Trail and allowing the fresh air to trigger our thoughts, or taking a walk along the bottom floor of the Ross building and reading the biographies acknowledging some of Brentwood’s veterans. Ron H, Rogers ‘14 shared his family’s experiences with war by describing how Remembrance Day is about remembering the families who lost their loved ones. Then three of our prefects read out the Brentwood Honour Roll of those who fought and died serving our country. Songs by the Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz Show Choir and soloists, as well a stunning dance by Youngeun L, Alexandra ’14 also brought beauty and poignancy to the ceremony. I think it’s essential to remind ourselves that Brentonians, some within months of graduating, enlisted in the war, preparing for a fight. Prior to volunteering, they may have been running drills for the First XV, or doing math homework. It is amazing how quickly their everyday life shifted as they were willing to risk their life for their country. 11.11.11. May we remember. Lest we forget. Karli S, Hope ‘15